Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Kownacki.
Hi Michelle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Born out of a passion for animals, I started Paws pet boutique downtown Annapolis, Maryland in 1999. With a desire to make a difference, and lots of inspiration from my Jack Russell and tabby cat, my goal was to create a space where pet lovers could connect and celebrate their dogs and cats. From the start, we hosted events to gather people and pets together while bringing attention and funds to animal-related charities.
My merchandise focus is on finding unique products and featuring USA-made items whenever possible. “Would I buy this product for my pet at this price?”, is a question I regularly ask myself. Paws pet boutique offers a collection of thoughtfully curated items for dogs, cats, and people at a fair price. To this day, our dog and cat collars are made in the USA by other small businesses.
With the support of the amazing Annapolis community and those who visited this charming historic town, Paws pet boutique found a place downtown for 20 years. My husband, Larry, joined the business within the first 5 years and our Paws Crew has always been filled with special people who share our love of animals. Paws became somewhat of a ‘coffee shop’ for pups, where we’d enjoy daily visitors and participate in selecting new collars and harnesses for regulars. From gathering groups to march in parades to hosting Pet-friendly Fundraisers (in-store, at hotels, restaurants, on boats, and even in a winery and marina!), extraordinary people came into our lives, memories were made and money was raised for worthy animal charities.
Back in 1999, we also discovered Naples, Florida thanks to my parents, who eventually decided to spend the majority of the year there. We fell in love with the warm, happy lifestyle and decided after 20 years in Annapolis, Paws may be able to do some good in another Naptown. We packed up our fur kids and shop in 2019 and moved it to Naples, Florida to start a new chapter. That’s where you’ll find us today!
Our boutique is located steps from the Naples City Dock (we can see the water from our front door) in downtown dog-friendly Naples.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Anyone who has owned a small business, or has been involved with managing one, knows there are always bumps and turns along the way. You wear many hats and never seem to have enough time in the day! Aside from the regular challenges a small business faces, the pandemic brought a new dimension of issues to address.
Fortunately, we have always offered curbside pickup and have an online store in place. Our loyal clients stepped up and made an effort to support Paws, for which we are forever grateful. Social media has helped us stay in touch with and support our Paws community near and far.
While our in-person fundraiser gatherings have been put on hold, we’re looking forward to bringing them back. We continue to try to make a difference one person and one pet at a time!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Paws have always been more than just a business. The core of Paws pet boutique’s mission is to make a difference through our storefront (physical and virtual) and outreach to our community.
Whether it’s finding the perfect harness for a dog and person to better enjoy a walk — creating fun experiences for visitors in the boutique — shipping online orders with hand-written thank you notes — helping celebrate a young, old, or recently adopted pet with their people — sampling treats with canine visitors to make tails wag — sharing cute photos of our guests on Paws Facebook and Instagram pages — offering items that make everyday life with pets more enjoyable — We love brightening the day and making people/pets happy through Paws.
We take pride in our owner-operated business and love connecting with those who cherish time with companion animals. When you reach out to us you’ll connect with me, my husband Larry, or my friend Tracy (who also lived in Annapolis!). We’re a small business wanting to make a big difference.
This past year we received an email from a client who shared the following:
“I received the collar I ordered from you and am so impressed. Not only did it arrive quickly, but it was wrapped beautifully, too. When a customer sees those touches, it shows that you care about your business. I love the collar and am thrilled it is even cuter than it was in the picture. Thank you.”
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Spend time doing something that you are passionate about – It will connect you with others who feel the same. Also, try to be open to making changes and evolving over time.
Contact Info:
- Email: earsup@pawspetboutique.com
- Website: www.pawspetboutique.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Pawspetboutique
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/Pawspetboutique
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/paws-pet-boutique-naples-2
